Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

Saying a number of things would be appropriate. First, several people have tabled management buy-out proposals, which are being evaluated. As I indicated to the unions today, it is important that they evaluate the proposal under discussion in the House and take on board its implications for workers. I am not referring to work practices, but to the use of redundancy funds. Second, if a viable commercial proposal is tabled to IDA Ireland or EI, we will support it. There is no two ways about that. The viability of any proposal must be examined in the normal context of EI or IDA Ireland criteria.

As I indicated, it is important that we consider the proposal's elements realistically. Unfortunately, the proposal is more complex and complicated than normally would be the case. However, we are working through it and we will do everything we can to assure people that everything possible will be done to sustain employment at Dublin Airport.

It is equally important to highlight that the companies outside of the State that have expressed an interest have not done so within the same framework as the expressions under examination. I assure people that, if a viable proposal is tabled to the Government, we will support it. It must be a business proposition and people must have the prerequisite funding to make the company a viable operation.

I have met many Opposition and Government Members regarding this issue. A number of people have been forthcoming in supporting different projects, which are being examined. I again met representatives of the IDA on this matter this afternoon. There also have been discussions today with the unions on this matter. When they met me recently, the unions were anxious that we would do all we could to sustain employment in that area and it is my clear intention to so do to the best of our ability.

See this speech in context